Share Your Thoughts: Access' Exclusive With Barack Obama & Family

I thought this was a great interview. It really hit home there isn't anything elitiist about this family. Just a down-to-earth family that has the same values as many of us Americans. The only difference is Barack & Michelle are in a position to help get our country back on track economically and regain respect for our country from around the world. It's too bad the Obamas won't do another up and close interview like this one again.
Janice
Chesapeake, VA

This was a WONDERFUL interview! Maria Menounos was fantastic. She was sooo wonderful with the children. I consider it one of the best interviews of this entire election process. The girls, the entire family is so delightful to watch and what a phenomenal chance to get to know them better..
They were honest open , non- pretentious.
I am proud to know that they may one day be the first family.
I think you guys got the "SCOOP" of the day.
Congrats!!!

Read my blog post about my thoughts on the interview.

It was fantastic to finally get a full view of who the Obamas are. I really feel like I got to know them better. It would have been inappropriate to ask any more hard-hitting questions with the young girls around, but it was smart of him to put them out there. Maria struck the perfect balance as an interviewer. Keep up the great work!

Sarah in Lubbock, Texas

I thought it was a refreshing change of pace. It's great to get to see the human side of Barack and his family. While the hard hitting questions are certainly important in certain contexts, what Access and Maria did was totally fun! Kudos all around!

How was it ok for Chelsea and Bill to help Hillary, but people want to crucify Obama for including his family--come on. We have the right to see his family, many things can be judged by how a family gets along--yes his girls are young, but his patience with his chidlren is something that needs to be seen across the country--a lesson for other parents!

Lovely family! I would vote for the whole package, just on the basis of the interview!

The naysayers out there need to calm down and start focusing on what's really important here! Seeing Obama and his family together with that sweet little Maria only reminds us how important it is to have a compassionate, down-to-earth person in the White House. I can't wait to see more with them. PS…my family and I watch your show every night and when I can- I sneak on your website at work!

I do not blame him for not wanting to do this again but this was a great interview and showed a human side to the family. Once is enough though.

I don't care for Barack Obama and won't vote for him because I still don't know what he stands for. But, this was a fantastic interview! It shows a high degree of confidence to let your kids go live with an interviewer because as we all know, "kids say the darndest things". It makes me wonder what Bill and Hillary were so afraid of by not letting Chelsea speak then or now!

Did Obama really say in his book he would "Stand with the Muslims"? Well? Did he use drug? Alot of them? I am looking at casting my vote for the next President of the United States. I want all the facts not some blather covering them up. Both McCain and Obama should do some real inteviews about what they have done in their lives that quailfies them to be our next President.

I thought it was one of the best moments of either the Democratic or Republican campaigns. The Obamas are a real family. They are nice people. They are people that you'd enjoy having for neighbors. The interviewer did a terrific job by simply allowing the Obamas to just be a family. It reinforced my position that the Obamas will make a wonderful First Family.

Excellent. It just happened organically and Maria, my favorite, deserves all the credit for building a rapport with the girls to the point that they walked into the interview on their own. BTW, congratulations to the Obama's for a fabulous family. They deserve the White House.

Is this a preview of Obama's governing style, impetuously doing something you said you wouldn't do and then regretting going it within 24 hours? Swell.

I thought it was a good interview. It gave viewers who are unsure about Obama a chance to see what his family life is like.

I read on MSNBC that he called the interview a mistake on the "Today Show". I'm not sure what he thinks the mistake is but letting voters see a glimpse of who he is should be something that he would want to do for those who are unsure who to vote for.

I thought the Obama's were wonderful and Maria did a great job. It is too bad that some will use what was a genuine and touching encounter to criticize and politicize this sweet view of their family so that he is forced to regret that. I hope the press will continue to honor Barack and Michelle's requests that the girls stay out of the spotlight unless the parents have good control of the dynamics involved. What a wonderful first family they will make!

There may be aspects that I am unaware of but I thought the interview was very insightful and well done.

Wonderful interview, finally a real family for the White House - GO BARACK !!!!

GREAT interview!!! I would love for them to do this again.

Obama will say and do anything to get himself elected! The hugging white people on the commercial? What a JOKE! I am a black women whose family won't vote for him. What does he stand for?

It was such a sweet, touching interview showing a very warm, loving family.
This is something anybody can relate to.
It is unfortunate that Obama has apparently said "never again" because of the carping among a few who probably weren't for him politically anyway. As a result we will miss out on an immensely valuable asset. I hope he may reconsider for least once in a while but we all must respect his decision of course.

I thought this interview was awesome! Seeing a family that obviously is close and seriously "down home" is always a pleasure. I am from montana and didnt get to see them in butte, unfortunately. But seeing how real they are, well its refreshing to say the least! I do feel bad that he is choosing not to allow his children and family another interview, but I would imagine that as a father who doesnt want his children in a position to be picked apart in the press...well i can certainly understand that. We all protect our children at any cost, understandably! I would like to thank him and his family for the moments shared here in montana and with the families here. It has truely been wonderful knowing that he cares about what happens up here in our little neck of the woods (and prairies!!haha)

The interview was good. I question his real position on everything. I still want to know what qualifies him to be our President. Has anyone (including McCain) ever explained, in detail, just how they would go about making these changes they refer to all the time? It is one thing to say you will change this or that, but we as Americans want to know "how". Isn't it true that the President has to present to Congress his proposals and Congress has to pass them before they can be changed? What happens if Congress doesn't approve them? We are back in the same boat we are now!! If you ask us every politition is always full of promises they can't or don't keep. It is history!!

O, He comes off so humble and not as seeing himself akin to Christ or more down to earth maybe Abraham Lincoln.This retard is being set up. Obama will be the next excuse for why unemployments soars, jobs are outsourced, poor children dieing in the 3rd world. Eventually, people will be saying now you blacks have no excuse. "The Man" is black and he's screwing this country. Are we all forgetting we have a legislative,executive, and judicial branch- does Obama plan to overturn the system of checks and balances too?Change WHAT YOU BROKEN RADIO! WE ARE A REPUBLIC NOT A DEMOCRACY PEOPLE!! A nation for the people not of the president. I am neither Republican or Democrat before you think I sway one way or the other. I vote Christ and a return to the God found foundation this country was built on. Obama will just be the next excuse why everything is messed up.People are just looking for an excuse to not take personally responsibility and he is taking it, hook,line and sinker. This interview just shows how he is already putting himself in the Christ position without staying humble like he tries to come off as. Some many people are getting carried away by the allure of having a black president. Since when did race constitute intelligence. No one really thinks that our economy could be much worse, gas could be much higher. But they choose not to look at factors and really what he says which make him presidential material.I would not want Obama to lead my dog to the restroom much less my country. RACE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE INTELLIGENCE AND THE ABILITY TO LEAD THE COUNTRY.

WHAT...a normal family talking about normal things and calling dad boring like all normal families do????

Is it possible that we just saw a presidential candidate who can be a normal guy?

Stay tuned because there will always be naysayers, but I think that this just may be the normal way the Obama family get on in life...WHICH IS GREAT!

I think Obama should keep his children out of the picture totally or they will get swiftboated by Limbaugh just like he did Chelsea.

I was listening that day, was horrified and have never listened to the fatman since.

BTW: Why didn't he get the justice over his drug scandal that he railed on about????

Made me see what pubs are, 4 faced!

It made his family more real. I was not a big fan of him, or his wife until I saw the interveiw. I don't think it was a mistake on his part, nor do I think it was him doing a power play.... They are a great family, something the rest of us can admire.

This was a great interview. Something that the American people needed to see. Most folks are still foreign to the Obamas and this was a beautiful introduction or continuation of a story for some.

For Obama to call this a mistake is sickening. This man has been going down down in my book for months. That is why as of 2 months ago I have withdraw my full support from his campaign. He needs to walk what he talks. Make the tough decisions..stick by your decisions even when they become un popular. The only un popular thing he has stuck by is voting for the FISA bill when majority of supporters are against it. This man will listen to our concerns and still do what he wants to do.

This was a golden moment in the campaign and he is calling it a mistake. He needs to re find that person we met back in Springfield, Ill because this new person is a distortion of what he sold us back than.

Obama gets more media exposure. First he has a forum as inappropriate as "Access Hollywood" conduct an interview with his family, then he has an interview with Matt Lauer on NBC to say he "made a mistake." All very calculated.

Glad to see Mr. Flip Flop is not PIMPING his kids to get elected. You are a product of the company you keep. I do not need to see your kids to see who you are, all I need to look at is the church you were at for 20 years, oh sorry, you were there but you never listned to what was being said.

I and a few others who kicked this interview around. I admit we have not seen it in it's entire form as of yet. We found the comments by the interviewer totally retarded. The Obama's have body parts, smiles, a home, bills, kids. What is this someone has to show that they are a normal family. Then it comes down to what is a normal family and by who's standard do we judge. So they may not look like you, talk like you, your neighbor probably doesn't either. I just hope he doesn't turn into the fake flag waving patriot that is so common in this country now.

The man is still a virtual unknown. I care more about his lack of experience in governing not just voting liberally. Who is he really? I cannot trust him. Will not vote for him. His girls are cute. All little girls are sweet and cute. It appeared to be for the camera if you ask me. I'll vote for the man with experience in these very challenging times not for one whose little girls are cute. Come on people engage those brains! Stop buying into the celebrity and the charm and the promises. What is there to back them up in his history? Not much. Do your homework! He's scarey because he says ALL the right things. Just talk. Nothing to back it up with so far.

My family and I thought it was a great interview. We got to meet all of them. It is about time that we have a down to earth family in the white house. Have not had one since JFK. Go Obama 2008 Jim Hall

The interview is a welcome respite from all the political news I hear and see. It is just sad that in politics, sinister motive is always attributed to anything said or done.

If he had hustled his kids away from the interviewer he would be accused of being elitist, etc. It's not claculated. It's just that nothing is EVER right in this media or politics. You are damned if you do and damned if you don't. Hilary C. supports her husband & marriage and she gets called names. If she had left him the media would say "whent he going gets tough she exits". You cannot win.

It was a mistake. The interview was empty and meaningless. It portrayed the family as just average at best and did not impress me at all. I was expecting to see a bright young family and saw a dull boring home movie. None of the family were verbally articulate and sorry to say it showed. Makes me wonder what we would be getting if Obama gets the nomination.

I found them to be a very charming family. It made me like them even more. Thanks to Aceess Hollywood and Maria for the great insight.

Well first I will disclose that Iam an Obamacan. I was an advid Mcainiac of 2000. Today Not so Much. I thought it was great to too see the family. However, I don't think he should do it again. The issues are too great and the fight is gonna be too rough. Leave the babies out of the fight. That being said I love the Obama's. Maybe this loss in November will bring back my Republican Party. And maybe Barack wil convert too... There's ALWAYS H O P E! ~Moss

Loved the family and the interview! Very refreshing!

I thought it was a great interview. I really liked the fact that it showed that they were normal people like the rest of us that just wanted to enjoy their quality time with family and friends. Their children are very important to them and that says a lot. I am still unsure of my vote but I did really like seeing them in this atmosphere to see that they are not just a presidential candidate family, but are normal americans. It was refreshing. Don't regret your interview...it has been very nice thus far.

It was GREAT! Was a wonderful, loving family and it didn't come off as staged or calculated at all.

It's funny how a family so loving and normal seems to scare people, but then again this is politics. Some people will look for any excuse to discredit a perfectly decent individual.

Must be ashamed of his family. We want a president who is ashamed of his family... ashamed of letting us "lower income" people see that he might be "just like us"? I wouldn't feel bad about it, I don't know why anyone else would.

No comment the guy doesn't interest me enough too say any thing.........Good riddance

I think people make too much of things like this. For those who have such a problem with him allowing his kids on TV, did it ever occur to you that the children may have wanted to? I know I would have loved to be on TV for my birthday! The only thing Mr. Obama really regrets is the public reaction to him having the kids on TV. It was a wonderful interview and he shouldn't have to explain every blasted detail of his life or have some sort of public-created rules to govern his family life. Get over it.

This guy is a complete joke! He has not said what he is for or against without contradicting himself a day or two later. He has not said how he is going to improve things except he wants to raise a ton of taxes/ and now he is exploiting his family (which he said he'd keep private) just to get the people's votes... well now he realizes he is being criticized and he is saying he wished he never did that now as well. What do people see in this guy? Why can't they see behind the mask?

I loved it. I thought it was great. It showed the realness of a family. My husband and I having raised 4 children, know how spontaneous kids can be. It was wonderful to see an unscripted interview after almost 8 yrs of scripted interviews with Bush.

Go Obama. We are behind you all the way.

Obama plays well in Peoria, Illinois.
God Bless you and your family.

Give me a break. Obama knew exactly what he was doing. He knew what the stakes were, going into the interview. He's a very intelligent man so there's no way he could not have known he and his family would be crucified by certain people on the right wing. I don't buy it for a minute.

It is so refreshing to see a young politician and his family just being natural and unstaged. I loved the interviews and see nothing at all inappropriate about them. They gave us an opportunity to share a bit of their lives. It is obvious this is a family that is filled with love, good strong values and can be held as an example to others in this country. What is inappropriate about that?

I didn't feel as if Obama was using his family but rather sharing them with us. I'm a Obama supporter but now feel even stronger in my views that we have the right man to lead our country--a man with brains, compaasion, new ideas, strong ideals and love of family, home and country.

Thumbs up to the interview and please, Mr. Obama, don't for a minute think you made a mistake allowing the interviews.
Margaret Richman

7-9-2008

It seems to me that Barack backs down too easily; he shames himself too often, and he regrets too much.

These are not the characteristics bespeaking confidence that we are seeking in a new leader.

Sincerely,

Harvard Hollenberg

It was a WONDERFUL interview! The parents can be so proud of their daughters for being so polite, respectful, and yet, utterly honest. It was delightful to meet this family and see how "family values" shaped their daughters' young lives. It was obvious that this was not rehearsed and I found the spontaneity most enjoyable as a "normal, typical American family". Certainly dispels any notions of their being "elitist". I have no idea why Barack says that he 'regrets" the interview for he has nothing to regret as far as I can tell but he has much to be proud of in his wife and daughters.

7-9-2008

It seems to me that Barack backs down too easily; he shames himself too often, and he regrets too much.

These are not the characteristics bespeaking confidence that we are seeking in a new leader.

Sincerely,

Harvard Hollenberg

What a wonderful interview. AT LAST, I finally can get a glimpse of the personal side of Barack Obama.

With that said, I'm perplexed to hear Obama say it was a mistake to allow his children to be in the interview - and that he wouldn't do it again. WHY? Who, or what, are you afraid of Obama??

I can't imagine anyone letting a few political nuts tell someone that they shouldn't have allowed the country to see their children in such an innocent and refreshing way. Barack jumped the gun by denouncing the interview. He should have said "this is MY family and they are more important than the presidency."

(This quote being from the article)...“I think that we got carried away in the moment,” the Illinois senator and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee told TODAY’s Matt Laueris. Is this going to be the way he conducts his business in The White House. There are a lot a situations in making decisions when you are the President of the United States of America, which brings me to a thaught of, is he going to make decisions like that if he is elected. Getting "carried away in the moment" which sounds like he is making an exuse of why it was wrong, for him, to do this interview. I thaught it was a great interview and liked it very much but why is Barack thinking it was a mistake. He also is quoted saying, “We were having a birthday party, and everybody was laughing. And suddenly this thing cropped up. I didn’t catch it quickly enough. I was surprised by the attention it received.” The... "I didn't catch it quickly enough" troubles me about his decision making. If this is just a birtday party interview how will he react to a nuclear bomb coming from North Karea or Iran, or any other crissis for that matter. I will still vote for him because I feel we need to get ANYONE other than a Republican as our President.

Obama calls ‘Access Hollywood’ interview a mistake:

“I actually did vote for the interview before I voted against it.”

This was a FANTASTIC interview! I think this showed that the Obamas are a regular loving family. I don't think he should be ashamed of this interview at all. Thanks for sharing!

Loved it, a true family man. This interview has changed my mind. I will be voting for Obama.

It was Tony The Tiger, GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGREAT!

Awesome interview! Great stuff from everyone! Sure, kids can say things that a political advisor might cringe at (or want to edit out of the interview!), but hey, Barack & Michelle are REAL PEOPLE (SMART real people), and it's about damn time America was represented by someone REAL!

You can't really coach a 7-year-old, but the girls were darling. And REAL!

I can understand Barack's concern about putting his family into the public eye from a safety and security standpoint, but this interview did NOTHING BUT HELP all of us better understand and appreciate these remarkable people!

YES WE CAN!!!

This was a great interview
we need more of this in the great
land not like to past we do not know anytime in washington just what they want us to know great for the Obama's

I thought it was a great interview. The older daughter is very bright for her age. I don't see what the problem is for the public to get to know the future first family. McCain has had his family on the campain trail for over a year now. Barack just showed that he has a normal family. McCain's family comes off as coming from a family of privilage, not the normal american family. People may not be able to relate to them as they do the Obama's.

The warmth of the soon to be first family came across. The Obama children are just like any one else's kids. They look at their mom and dad just like any kids do. They are sweet, well mannered and well spoken. I don't blame the parents for wanting to keep them out of the line of fire from the cruelty of the press. You can see that they all miss each other and this was just something that "happened" and was a joy for all of us to witness. We have a great deal to look forward to with the Obama family as our first family - a family we can truly be proud of.

Karl Marx couldn't have said it better. No, Not Graucho Marx, you brain-dead morons.
He's a Socialist!!! Wake Up!!

Further conviced me that as a democrat I am making the right decision in voting for John McCain....Democrats for McCain

Why does Obama always seem to be apologizing and "learning from his mistakes"? It seems to me like this guy is acting like an amateur who isn't ready to take the reigns of this country. Why aren't the two candidates debating? We want to hear how they are going to tackle the real issues. Don't get me wrong, the interview was entertaining, but I'm not going to vote for Obama simply because of his family. The media wants to portray Obama as a model citizen, sex symbol (magazine covers, etc.), and this carismatic speaker that can woo voters. I still don't know how he can make this country better. Then again, people here voted for Arnold S. So anything is possible in this country.

This is another classic example of Obama saying one thing then doing the opposite. I hope the American public that supports him will discover intelligence before it is too late.

How fortunate we are to have a presidential candate that can show flexibility on positions. Only a stupid person will hold rigig stands to all positions, refusing to review issues and or positions, refusing to become cognizant of daily circumstances that might require change, refusing to say, lets step back and take another look.

This is also expected of parents and what is expected on a daily basis. Some things, such as principals, values, or ethics never change. However, positions on circumstances dictated by daily events can be altered. The ability to be able to say, lets step back, review the circumstances and take anoter look. These are the actions of a wise man.

Since the media and critics cannot come up with substantive issues to attack the Obamas on, they have to attack the honesty that comes with flexibility and turn flexibility into a negative.

Look at where inflexibility has gotten us with the Chaney Bush era. Thanks be for the crack in the window for change.

Lovely Children, and their parents are clearly proud of them (how refreshing). These are real people, not some demigods propped up by some deviant, self-serving oligarchy. And, through the gentle fun-loving bantering, it revealed how humble and hardworking Senator Obama is.

Wonderful interview. Confident kids point to caring, loving parents, something you can't "fake" on live TV. I understand that the girls need to be sheltered (there are to many ugly wolves circling around), but it was nice to get a peek at this wonderful family. It was also a nice, fresh breeze during a hot, stuffy campain.

The dude scares me! He's a follower of "reverand" Wright, buddies with Louis Farrakhan and other people that hate and want to destroy America. And THIS is the Democratic forerunner??? GOD HELP US ALL!

Relax, Senator. Regret this if you truly regret it from your heart, but not for political reasons. Your little girls wanted to do this, so you let them. Big Deal. Be true to yourself, and this interview was true. A wonderful glimpse into a functional American family. Go with it.

Naysayers........GET A JOB!! This was a beautiful interview and I enjoyed getting to know our future president and the first family up close and personal. They are a blessed family and I'm wishing them, as well as our nation, the best.

I think it is honorable for a MAN to be able to admit when he's made a mistake, and have a change of heart. Thousands of lives could be been saved if our current leaders would have acknowledged their misconceptions about going to war and corrected the problem; rather than worsening an already bad decision.

The girls' comments showed how comfortable they are being honest with their parents. They were a joy to watch. God bless them.

I Loved the interview and appreciate any insight we get into the personal side of the Obama family.

What was negative? Obama attempted to allow us into his personal side.

He can't win for loosing with some of cynical media (ABC).

Professional journalism?

Sick and tired in Texas,
CJ

I believe Obama has made a point of mentioning his superior judgment from time to time, perhaps we should consider he might have had other reasons for his opposition to the Iraq war other than his judgment of the conflict. Perhaps it was a simple as the Senator he was opposing (before he withdrew) was for the war and therefore to draw a better contrast he should line up against it, pure political calculation and nothing more. It seems judgment about exposing your child to the media and therefore your political foes should have been an easy call, but he blew it!

To OhioEd -

Are you referring to the televised Rush Limbaugh show when he kept referring to Chelsea Clinton as a "dog" and barked as he showed pictures of her? I was horrified that any adult would EVER in such a PUBLIC manner treat a child that way. It's just too bad he didn't do something like that in today's politically sensitive environment - the network airing that broadcast would have thrown him off the air!

I saw nothing wrong with the Obama's interview. It was refreshing to see a family that acts like your neighbors.

I won't be voting for him, so I don't really care.
I wouldn't have done it though, political children that are thrust in the limelight usually go astray.
I wonder about being away from your kids so much, I wouldn't do that either, especially at such a young formative age.

This does show the "family" side of Obama. I understand his regrets about letting his children on it because now that they are in the public eye what is going to stop the hard hitting right wing nuts to go after these girls for answers and the tabloids to get photos to doctor and make them look bad. Obama can handle them pushing him around but when it comes to his children he is a father first and if it were me in his shoes I would be hard pressed not to go after someone who exploited and abused my children in photos or verbally. He wants to keep his children out of the bashing spotlight that it seems all right wing nuts seem to stoop to.

I find no fault in the inteview. My deep regret is that the media and others opposed to the Obma's want to make this some kind of negative move.

"I think it is honorable for a MAN to be able to admit when he's made a mistake, and have a change of heart. "

Say that when he starts to raise your taxes and then admits later that it was a mistake, or if he decides to drill for oil offshore (taking McCains idea) and then apoligizes to the party for renigging on what he was campaigning and promoting to you die hard Democrats. When are you guys going to stop backing this guy up? He obviously is mistake prone and you want to keep giving the flip flopper chances? Geesh. The Democrats can actually relate to this guy, they must have some serious problems in their lives then to play follow the leader with Obama.

Obama talks like a jerk. He wants more money for women and child care, well who is going to pay. The cost of everything will go up when wages go up. He is such a jerk. He will say or promise anything for a vote.

Obama is a moron.

I think its important for people to know that the candidates are human beings. I liked the interview.

This guy is friends with Wright, Farakkhan, and others that hate America and want to destroy us...and he is the Democrat forerunner? GOD HELP US!

I think it was wonderful. Heartwarming and honest. It gave me a glimpse of this united and caring family and it showed the love they all have for one another. I wasn't so sure of Obama until I saw the interview. I saw a close family full of happiness and love. It was fantastic. I do agree that this needs to be a one-time thing.

I'm sorry but people need to get over this trivial stuff there is nothing wrong with a simple interview. It's not like Access Hollywood was probing for deep questions it was a simple family interview. Yes Barack did say he wanted to keep his family life private but there was no private information shared just a plain fun interview. People want to make a big deal out of every little thing about presidential candidates just to try to stir up information and try to take down the candidate. We have way bigger issues to talk about then this little NO BIG DEAL INTERVIEW. PEOPLE GET OVER IT AND MOVE ON!!! We have huge issues such as ending the Iraq War, gas prices and our economy.

I thought it was a lovely interview. The girls
were beyond charming, and I enjoyed seeing
all of them together.
I would never cast a vote for or against anyone based on something like that, but
I enjoyed it and thought it was great.

I thought it was a great interview. I did not feel it was used to score points etc. The interview showed the human side of Barack and Michelle, and the girls are delightful.
It is a shame that we have been reduced to “every interview- word or deed seen as having an ulterior motive".

I think that Mr. Obama is being a little too protective by saying he shouldn't have allowed his kids to do the interview. He has a beautiful family and should be proud of it and it's what the American public needs to see these days. To me, strong family ties make for a stronger candidate. I saw no stress in any of the faces and they seemed to be having a very good time. It was a pleasure seeing the media doing something positive for a Presidential candidate for a change. Relax, Obama, it's all good. By the way, my birthday was July 3.

Aaagh! Every presidential candidate's family has a real side to them. It's easy to misconstrue every word from a taped interview...and the exact placement of each word...within a conversation.
Barack Obama is a young, intelligent and energetic presidential candidate. I think his family will keep him grounded so that he knows that their future (and the future for all kids) will hopefully be a better one!
I have no doubt, if given the opportunity, that he will act in the very best interest of this great country!

Hello,
This was the BEST Interview I've viewed. It really let's you get to know them as people. I don't agree with not doing it again

Thanks,
Judy
Los Angeles, CA

I thought it was great to see the very personal side of these folks. I probably would not allow it to happen again as reporters are people too, and the next interviewer may not be as sincere as this one. I think they are a great family and I am sure that President Obama will go down in history as one of the greatest!

Aaagh! Every presidential candidate's family has a real side to them. It's easy to misconstrue every word from a taped interview...and the exact placement of each word...within a conversation.
Barack Obama is a young, intelligent and energetic presidential candidate. I think his family will keep him grounded so that he knows that their future (and the future for all kids) will hopefully be a better one!
I have no doubt, if given the opportunity, that he will act in the very best interest of this great country!

This interview didn't help me decide who to vote for. I didn't hear how he will help the poor working people of US.

IT WAS A GOOD INTERVIEW! NOT MUCH TO SAY

Personally, I loved the interview, I felt it made the Senator look real and humble. The interview showed a close, down to earth family, it represented traditional American family values , what this country believes in and holds dear.
As a strong Obama supporter I was disappointed to hear the Senator say that the interview was a mistake. Senator Obama should not have regretted doing such an interview, because it allowed Americans to become more familiar with the Senator. For quite some time now, Senator Obama has been labeled by the media as the " unknown outsider " but Access Hollywood showed that the Senator is actually just like you and me. Senator Obama should ignore the negative comments. The naysayers probably are the "Rush Limbaugh's " of the country who wouldn't vote Democrat anyway.
Obama 08' !!!

I don't think the interview hurt him at all. His wife and his children are well spoken and attractive. If Barrack feels a need to publicly separate himself from anyone it would have to be Billary. The lady's a train wreck. A month ago she was telling the country how bad he was going to be for Americans, this month she's backing him up. I'm not voting for the guy anyway, I don't think he's the right guy for the job during a time of war. I wonder how well the country would have turned out at the end of WW2 had a person like Barrack (ie, anti-war) made it into the white house rather than Harry Truman. Sianara, Amelicans

Given how much attention MSNBC has given this story I think it must be a slow news day or it's time for MSNBC to start laying off members of its investigative news staff because they have waaaaay too much time on their hands.

Great interview or not, lets look at what the Senator has said about his family. He's clearly stated on more than occassion that he wants to leave his private life out of the campain. Well, looks like he's trying to have it both ways with this interview. While it seems innocuous enough, it just goes to show that he will say what's needed to get him elected. Also, now he's stating that it was a mistake to do the interview and that it was rather spur-of-the-moment. Well, if he can't make good decisions regarding his family (meaning a decision that flies in the face of his own statements) how in the WORLD can anyone believe that he'll have their best interests in mind if he's elected?
Who's to say that he's not going to get caught up in the moment about something and make a terrible mistake regarding our economy, health care, or children's rights?

I enjoyed watching the Obama family and think they look just like my own beautiful family except that my 10 year old is a bright boy. Their precious 7 year old is just like my precious 7 year old daughter.

Michelle and Barack have the cutest kids ever!! They seem really smart and socially in-tune just like their Mom and Dad. Seeing how well-balanced their kids are make me like the Obamas even more than I already did.

I thought the interview was great. His older daughter showed how well brought up she is when she spoke about important people and looked at her mother and said "no disrespect".

I agree with his decision not to do it again. But once said it all. You only get one chance to make a first impression--and it was a great first impression.

What a delightful and beautiful family! However, I understand Senator Obama's concern as a father to need to protect his daughters from the media, yet how delightful to know that this part of his life is solid and loving. If he and Michelle have been able to raise such sweet girls with their busy lives so far, then I rest assured knowing they will be able to do a good job as "First Family".

I've always believed that Senator Obama is a wonderful man but to see this side of his life is "normal" makes me joyous that he would be making some excellent decisions as President to ensure that his daughters' futures would be bright.

I think the interview showed that Obama is just like any politician,he will do or say anything to win. If having his children on TV will help his campaign he will do it. If he gets critized he will say it was a mistake, just like any politician. Someone mentioned what is the difference when Hillary had Chelsea out campaigning. Chelsea is an adult. The Clintons did everything they could when she was young to protect her from the press. The right thing to do. Using your children for political gain is wrong and there was no other reason for the interview. Obama's lack of judgment is why I will be voting for McCain in the fall.

The only thing the interview showed me was that the Obamas are doing a great job as parents. Their children seem bright, well behaved, loving, loved and natural with their parents.

I think the interview showed that Obama is just like any politician,he will do or say anything to win. If having his children on TV will help his campaign he will do it. If he gets critized he will say it was a mistake, just like any politician. Someone mentioned what is the difference when Hillary had Chelsea out campaigning. Chelsea is an adult. The Clintons did everything they could when she was young to protect her from the press. The right thing to do. Using your children for political gain is wrong and there was no other reason for the interview. Obama's lack of judgment is why I will be voting for McCain in the fall.

I'm puzzled as to why Barack Obama now regrets the family interview?. When I first saw the footage my reaction was, "Wow, what well-spoken young ladies and what a nice family". It was a true breath of fresh air to see an honest interview conducted in the spirit of a family outing. The interview itself seemed very spontaneous and not at all scripted for the medias sake. This gave us all a peek into the lighter side of the Obamas. There is no need to feel that the coverage was blown out of proportion - the American public IS interested and curious about them. Fear not Senator Obama, the interview was fantastic and your girls were delightful!!

I avoid watching such dog-n-pony fluff stuff. I doubt his kids did him any harm at all, though. What can a 10 and 7 year old say that could hurt you anyway? It's all just another big PR-BS show anyway. Remember that old saying: (maybe from Shaw) "The only worse than being talked about is...NOT being talked about." You may all titter behind raised hands for a few seconds now. That's long enough. This can all be catagorized with one word: STUPID.

I'm trying to figure out what the fuss is all about over this interview. What's so wrong with getting to know a little more about the personal side of this man who wants to be President and to see his family in an informal situation? I want to know more about Obama than just his stand on the issues.

I thought this was a lovely interview. His girls are very well adjusted and still little girls. They handled it with aplomb and there is absolutely nothing that the Obama family should be ashamed of. It was done very respectfully and with tact and the comment from his daughter about her father not liking sweets was great. They are a great family, perhaps what most families aspire to be. I, for one, can't imagine the McCain family being as forthright as this family was. Well done Obama family and Access Hollywood.

It was the most refreshing interview I have ever seen. This nation needs a President, that is a great Father, Husband and Leader. If you can't spend minutes in front of a camera with your kids at that age especially and people don't get a real sense of what kind of parents/people you really are, I don't know of a better reality check. Scripted speeches on tellipromter, that's the honest approach. The girls were darlings as we all expected them to be. The interviewer was perfect and shows she knows people. Once was all we needed to see the truth about Senator Obama and his beautiful wife and kids. They are beautiful on the inside and well as the outside.

Wonderful interview and lovely family. Why is it so hard for us to believe he might actually be a "good guy" that we can trust? He has put everything on the line and I respect his courage and tenacity.

What is all the fuss about? This interview was great! His daughters are so adorable, and his oldest is such a sweet young lady - very poised and direct, just like her parents. I don't understand what everyone is freaking out about. I enjoyed it!

"How fortunate we are to have a presidential candate that can show flexibility on positions."

-- Not when it is done for purely political expediency like Obama.

Nice interview, but lets not forget all this man stands for. He will use and denounce anything that will get in his way to be President. Let's also not forget about the great paper his wife wrote in college on how bad the United States is. Also, remember Obama's (Osama) quote, "The United States is the greatest country in the world, now lets Change it." I'm sorry, nice family, but everything he does seems to be focused to get him in the WhiteHouse. Typical politician. I'm not saying I like McCain either. I'd like a President who can relate to the majority of the population. One that isn't wealthy like all the past Presidents and those running every four years. Until that day, how can these politicians make decisions for the majority of the population.

this interview was delightful! the kids were so cute and typical kids. obama has no reason to apologize for letting us have a peek into his family life. the country was mesmerized by caroline and john-john and we could use this again in our soured country. in our family, we refer to those that are "for" and those that are "aginners". republicans seem to fall into the "aginner" category. they're against anything or anyone who is new and refreshing. i hope to see this lovely, down to earth family living at 1600 next january. we need a break from the OLD ways.

I loved this interview! This family is so refreshing to get to know. I have to say that I love those "Obama Girls," but I think that I understand Obama's concerns for them with respect to potential media exploitation, right-wing smears of the little girls personally and/or security risk exposure. This was not a campaign event, it was family time and Maria provided us with a wonderful opportunity to meet the potential next first family. Great job.

I think that for the naysayers Obama could literally walk on water and they would criticize him for having wet feet! For those who never would have voted for him in any case, there is nothing he can do right or that they won't criticize. The nastiness and vitriol is exactly why Obama regrets the exposure of his girls on TV. Too bad our Nation is so sick that that is concern. God bless the Obama family and protect them from the nutcases. I will definitely vote for this man on November 4th!

I don't understand why anyone is judging Obama about an interview with his family. I can't turn on a t.v. without hearing about the state of McCain's wife's hairstyles! Why do people waste time and energy stressing the unimportance of these issues? I find it relieveing to see a human side of Obama. Don't we want a President with a strong family behind him? I just can't imagine his daughters getting caught drinking under age! They feel (not seem!) real, genuine, and down to earth - where i feel our President belongs! God bless and please no apologies about the interview Obama, just keep doing what you are doing. As far as McCain's family, his wife comes across as a stiff snob who's hiding something. There is no warmth to her (or him for that matter!). Doesn't it seem fair to want a President that you feel like you could relate to? Who you could have a conversation with and not feel like he thinks he's better than you because he has money? Obama feels like FDR, a president for all the American people - not just the 1% er's!

Why would Sen. Obama EVER think it is a bad thing to allow a candid interview including his family for public viewing?? My wife and I thought this was delightful...including "O" wearing 10 year old pants! We lean toward Obama, and interviews like this go a long way toward persuading me at a personal level. I have the OPPOSITE impression though when he concludes that such an interview was a mistake. :(

Barack never said it was a mistake that what the media said. Please read his actual words and that has been happening a lot. people seem to be relying on the media for information instead of taking time to hear what the person actual said. Great interview by the way not pretentious like those on the opposite site

Obama always talks about "change" but what kind of change is he referring to? Someday during his campaigning he ought to explain what changes he's talking about. Regardless of what changes he wants, it's going to take tons of money to make those changes, and are people in this country willing to accept those changes? And people must remember one thing, not just the government needs to change, people need to change, too.

Wonderful, heartwarming interview with an awesome, beautiful All-American family. May they be richly blessed, regardless of the election outcome.

Very enjoyable. Cute kids. Gives a good view of the candidate and family.

It was a great interview and the family clearly represents stability. I can understand that he would not want to do it again, but since they did I say more power to you. There is nothing in the interview that would ever suggest he is using his family for any political gain. I really hope that people see the real person and not just what rumours are out there .

It's funny how all these people that are against Obama seem to find their way to this site. If you don't like him or his family and don't plan to vote for him...DON'T!!! Why are you ALL stalking him on the internet?? I say GET A LIFE and stop being mad because you've not made anything of your life and he and his wife are both very successful professionals.

I loved this interview. I think it shows what a loving down to earth family they are. The girls are lovely, well spoken, confident young ladies.

Senator:
You have nothing to be ashamed of! It. was a great interview. Quit listening to these hacks who can find nothing more than attack your wife, your religion, and your kids.

I loved it!! Thank-you to the Obama family for letting us into their home life! Share and share alike- Americans have let Barack into their homes, their businesses, their personal lives/struggles etc. and it is so nice to see the gesture spontaneously returned. There was NOTHING negative about celebrating Independence Day, a birthday, & then sitting down to talk about daily life. OBAMA campaign: this kind of gesture will continue to change "poltics as usual" and personalize Barack Obama's message. GObama!!

I think he is pimping his kids out.

I already am inspired by Obama and Michelle! To see them in the most important role of their life, Parents, made me feel more connected to them. Obama is wrong about having his kids on T.V.. I think having them as a part of the interview shows the world that they are more like you and me! I believe the beauty of anything begins in its raw form. Seeing his children for me was a testament at the wonderful work that he & Michelle have done. I can't wait until he becomes President.

A wonderful, loving All-American family and terrific interview. A heartfelt pleasure to watch and experience. May they continue to be richly blessed, regardless of the election outcome.

This was certainly not a mistake! It's great to see children who are capable of expressing themselves so articulately and effectively. They are a real family. I wish he hadn't said it was a mistake. People are going to criticize him for everything little thing he does so he's just got to do what he thinks is right, particularly when it comes to his own family. I don't like to see him buckle under criticism and pressure because I hope the he won't buckle under it if and when he's the President.

Great job Obama family! More families should try to build the character, strength, unity and integrity yours seems to have.

The Obama girls seem like delightful, normal kids. I'm disappointed that, once again, Obama is seemingly crying "fowl" and trying to back pedal on this one. If he can't control the circumstances surrounding his young daughters, how "in control" will be as the leader of the western world? I hate to say it because, initially, I was a supporter, but the arrogance of this man seems to be coming forward more and more. Was he jealous that it was his children who were in the spotlight rather than himself? Grow up Obama! It's not about you, it's about what's best for America.

I thought it was a sweet and sincere interview. I agree the girls should not be overly exposed to public scrutiny, but at the same time I would hate for them to be totally removed from the public eye. They are such adorable, confident young ladies and I thoroughly enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere.
I do not understand why it is being portrayed as such a "political" incident. Actually, he took a big chance given the natural inclination kids have to blurt our most embarrassing moments to anyone within earshot. LOL
Lovely interview, lovely family!

I consider myself a Democrat, but I will not vote for someone I cannot and do not trust and that person is Barack Obama and Michelle Obama.

I know that any president changes almost everything they promise. I just can't imagine what will happen to our coutry next.

I thought it was wonderful seeing the Obama family. I don't understand why anyone would or could be critical of an interview of Sen. Obama with his wife and girls. Why would anyone feel that because he let his family be interviewed that it was only to further his political career. Why shouldn't this interview be viewed as a chance for the American public to meet and see that the Obama family is a real, true, down-to-earth family who might possibly become America's 1st Family. The interview showed that they respect each other, love one another, and have fun with each other. Why is that so bad or wrong? I just don't understand what prompts some people to make such unjust and unnecessary judgements and comments.

It's unfortunate if they now view this interview as "a mistake". I understand not wanting to make it a habit, but we want our leaders to be real people, and not faceless CEOs.
It's a glaring fact that of the current administration, Condi Rice is the one we know best. The ice skating, piano playing, NFL enthusiast. Bush once choked on a pretzel. Cheney once mishandled a shotgun. Not exactly endearing stuff.

Wonderful Interview. A nice american family with values and lots of love. I think it was great that they did the interview and I am sad that we will not get to see more. I am moving from the middle to supporting Obama. I am tired and disgusted that every move Obama makes and every word he says that some republican can find fault in them. This latest "rant" by them is the last straw. I'm done with that party!

Obama hang tough. The good will come!

I must admit, I haven't seen the interview. That said, this comment is merely a reflection on the comments in this thread prior to mine...

I am of the opinion that Obama had every right to give the interview. Likewise, he has every right to say he would rather not do another one. The interview should have very little bearing on whether someone votes his direction or not; instead, one might consider voting for the candidate they feel can best represent our country.

For those that aren't sure where Obama stands on certain issues, by golly, do some research if you are that interested. Don't watch Access Hollywood to decide how to vote...

Just my two cents. Thanks for reading.

Althought I will not vote for Obama in the upcoming election, I thought the interview was well done and that the Obama family came off as very classy and presidential. The only problem I have is that Obama has said time and time again that he wants to keep his family life private, and here he did the exact opposite. Just another prime example of what appears to be recurring "flip-flops" by Obama.

I don't know about everyone else, but I am tired of seeing the Obamas pretend like they are a perfect family in front of the cameras. We get it already! It's becoming annoying and completely turning me off. Not to mention it seem totally pretentious.